M.I.A. Faces ‘Biggest Backlash of Career’ After Controversial Twitter Post

The iconic “Paper Planes” vocalist finds herself embroiled in “the biggest backlash in [her] career” on Twitter for her belief in Jesus.

Given the way M.I.A. revolutionized the industry with her blend of electronic, rap, and world music, it’s no surprise she’s known for a little controversy.  Recently, she faced “the biggest backlash in her career” on Twitter for describing her realization that Jesus is real. And just in time for the release of her newest album, ‘Mata’…

In an interview about the album, M.I.A. explained she became ill in India in 2015 and had a bizarre vision. In her feverish state, she experienced a vision of Jesus Christ that caused her great confusion creatively.  Given the social and introspective weight her music carries, she found herself noticing a tension between her previous Hinduism and a newfound Christianity.

M.I.A. burst onto the European club scene in 2003 with her single “Galang,” recognizable by her distinctive semi-spoken chanting and rap-like vocals.  However, the singer truly skyrocketed to fame in 2007 with her iconic hit “Paper Planes.”  Fun fact x2 – not only did Diplo co-produce (and similarly ascend to notoriety because of) the single, but he and M.I.A. also dated for a whopping 5 years.

Despite the slew of Tweeters in her defense, critics pointed out that the controversy lay deeper – namely with her politics.  One user noted her appearance on right-wing commentator Candace Owens’ podcast to discuss unpopular opinions on vaccines and free speech. Earlier this year, Porter Robinson faced similar backlash for his touring pianist Keudae’s problematic and potentially harmful beliefs.

The singer also faced criticism just two months ago for a series of controversial anti-vax tweets.  Moreover, she likened radio host Alex Jones’ lies calling the Sandy Hook shooting a hoax to celebrities “pushing COVID-19 vaccines.  Although she clarified her stance in a later statement, her reputation for brazen remarks on social media certainly precedes her.

If one thing’s for sure, it’s that M.I.A. is absolutely unafraid to speak her mind – perhaps to a fault.  The British artist will be performing at Ultra Music Festival in Miami this upcoming March. In the meantime, only time will tell what juicy moments 2023 has in store for us next!